Air coolers, or fin fans, are utilized globally in modern process facilities. Air is quickly moved past the tube exterior by way of a large fan system. As the product travels through the tubes, this process transfers the heat from the product into the atmosphere.
An air cooler or fin fan unit is constructed of several hundred to several thousand externally finned tubes. Tube dimensions typically range from 1” (25.4mm) to 1.5” (38mm) in diameter and up to 75’ (23m) in length.
Internal fouling of the tubes is a common problem, which ultimately leads to internal corrosion or pitting-type damage. Because the exterior fin/tube surface is exposed to the natural elements, a leak can result in product being released into the atmosphere.
Inspection of tubes which are utilized in high-corrosive environments is critical to the success of managing these particular assets. Quest TruTec's proprietary LOTIS® technology allows plants to assess the condition of critical air cooler/fin fan tubes.
Applicable Condition Assessment Technologies